You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles
YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.
SOUTH A<strong>FR</strong>ICA<br />
GRAPE<br />
in 2016, the farm boasts a rich history dating back to pre-European times when the<br />
Khoi-Khoi traversed the area seasonally with their flocks. The Catspad, one of the first<br />
passes to the interior, was constructed along the old game route over the Franschhoek<br />
Mountains, adding to the historical tapestry of the region.<br />
Wildeberg also benefits from a Mediterranean climate with wet winters and dry<br />
summers, creating ideal conditions for cultivating Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvedre.<br />
And of course, the farm’s rocky and complex soil composition, including Katspruit,<br />
Kroonstad, Houwhoek, Cartref, Clovelly, and Tukulu.<br />
Assistant winemaker Abigail Buckenham, who joined the team this year, is excited<br />
about the eminent 2024 harvest and the consistent quality produced here. Buckenham<br />
shares how these six soil types help carve personality and complexity into their wines,<br />
coupled with the changing terrain and three Syrah clones at their disposal. The location,<br />
against the mountain, aligns to develop vineyards that preserve natural biodiversity<br />
for conservation, she adds.<br />
“We definitely aim for a more savoury, sometimes austere style with a herbaceous<br />
tone, avoiding an overly fruit-forward profile and I would say our flagship Wildeberg<br />
Red exemplifies this winemaking philosophy. Comprising 90% Syrah and 10%<br />
WILDEBERG RECEIVED THE WINERY OF THE YEAR AWARD BACK-TO-BACK, AS BESTOWED<br />
BY WINEMAG.CO.ZA. RYNO BOOYSEN AND JD ROSSOUW, WINEMAKERS, AND ABIGAIL<br />
BUCKENHAM, ASSISTANT WINEMAKER, POSE PROUDLY WITH THE PRESTIGIOUS TROPHY<br />
WINTER 2023 • GILBERT & GAILLARD - THE <strong>FR</strong>ENCH EXPERTS ON WINE<br />
51
Change language